AUGUST 1, 2003

Indianapolis gets a June date

Indianapolis Motor Speedway has announced that the 2004 race will be moving to June 20. The date change has to be confirmed by the F1 Commission and by the FIA World Motor Sport Council.

"This is exciting news for race fans, for IMS and for the city of Indianapolis," said Tony George. "This new summer date will be good for travelers, both U.S. and international. If the FIA keeps its other traditional dates, this will set up a North American swing for F1.

Speedway officials admit that changing the facility from an oval circuit to a road course and then back to an oval will present challenges, but they have equal concern for city leaders preparing for the new date.

Officials believe the shift to the June date will also increase the visibility of the United States Grand Prix and Formula One in America because the event will not compete for media coverage with the National Football League or American college football.